Bicameralism

Definition

Bicameralism refers to a legislative system with two chambers or houses, such as the U.S. Congress, where power is divided between them. Each chamber has its own specific responsibilities and checks on the other.

Related terms

Separation of Powers: Separation of powers refers to the division of government powers among different branches (legislative, executive, judicial) to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

Checks and Balances: Checks and balances are mechanisms that ensure each branch of government can limit or control the actions of other branches, preventing any one branch from gaining too much power.

Legislature: A legislature is a body of government responsible for making laws. In bicameral systems, it consists of two separate chambers or houses with distinct functions.